Christmas is much more than just a celebration - it is a time full of magic, anticipation and precious memories. In Hamburg, this special time of year becomes a unique experience. The maritime metropolis is transformed into a winter fairy tale that makes hearts beat faster with its twinkling lights, the scent of Christmas baking, punch and roasted almonds.
Let yourself be enchanted by the festive atmosphere and discover Hamburg's diverse Christmas markets, the enchanting fairytale boats on the Alster, the cheerful Christmas parades and the festively decorated shop windows and shopping arcades. We invite you to enjoy the anticipation and magic of Christmas in Hamburg.
The lights twinkle and glitter in every part of the city, a delicate Christmas scent is in the air and the Christmas spirit can be felt around every corner. But we'll tell you even more little details about one of the most beautiful seasons in Hamburg. Did you know, for example, that the beautiful custom that is at home all over the world was invented in Hamburg? The Advent wreath! More exciting Christmas stories from Hamburg are waiting for you!
Typical Christmas traditions and customs of the Northern German Hanseatic City
The Christmas spirit of Hamburg awaits: Glittering lights, sparkling streets and the smell of cinnamon and mulled wine invite you to discover Hamburg in the run-up to Christmas. In our video, for example, we present the historic Christmas market at the town hall, a classic in Hamburg. There is something for everyone: This year, the Christmas market in HafenCity offers winter golfing as an insider tip for sports enthusiasts.
Hamburg offers some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, which delight visitors from all over the world every year with their variety and unique atmosphere. Whether historical, traditional or unusual - in the wintry Hanseatic city, the Advent season is an unforgettable experience.
The historic Christmas market in front of Hamburg City Hall is no longer an insider tip, but a must-see. Here, the flying Father Christmas, who not only makes children's eyes light up, is a particular delight. Every day at 4, 6 and 8 pm, Father Christmas and his reindeer float over the market area. In HafenCity, visitors can look forward to a special Christmas world with a unique experience: ‘winter mini golf’ and a curling rink as a sporting activity in a Christmassy setting - fun for the whole family.
The Winter Pride in the St. Georg district, the largest Christmas market for the LGBTQIA+ community in northern Germany, provides colourful diversity. This is where party meets entertainment, making the market a hotspot during the Advent season. Another highlight is the "White Christmas Magic" Christmas market on Jungfernstieg. Set against the impressive backdrop of the Inner Alster, this Christmas market offers an unforgettable experience with its light displays and views of the glowing Alster fir tree.
The Santa Pauli Christmas market on the Reeperbahn is just the thing for anyone looking for a special mix of tradition and extravagance. This is where classic Christmas spirit meets modern live music and entertainment - a somewhat different Christmas market with a special flair.
If you are looking for special Christmas presents, Hamburg is the place to be. The Hanseatic city is one of the most popular shopping metropolises in Europe and offers an incredible variety of shops in its numerous streets, squares and shopping arcades. Here you will find something for everyone - whether for family, friends or simply for yourself.
A special highlight in the run-up to Christmas is the Hamburg Christmas Parade, which brings the city centre to life on the four Saturdays of Advent with colourful, cheerful parades and Christmas music. Great fun for the whole family.
In Hamburg you can also get into the festive spirit away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre with its Christmas markets. During a walk along the Elbe, winter unfolds its very own Christmas atmosphere. Enjoy the sight of the glittering façade of the Elbphilharmonie from the Landungsbrücken and marvel at the illuminated Christmas tree on the bow of the historic ship Rickmer Rickmers. But also every ferry and even the tugboats sail across the Elbe with their christmas trees and lights.
The popular fairytale boats are finally taking place again this year. Hamburg's fairytale boats on the Binnenalster are a particular highlight for families with young children. These lovingly designed ships offer a unique mix of theatre performances, Christmas stories and creative baking and craft activities.
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